Bucs LB Alexander suspended final 4 games of regular season

TAMPA, Fla. (AP) Tampa Bay Buccaneers linebacker Kwon Alexander has been suspended for violating the NFL policy on performance-enhancing substances and will sit out the final four games of the regular season without pay.

The rookie had started all 12 games and been the team's most consistent playmaker on defense

Tuesday's announcement by the NFL wasn't a surprise. Alexander was informed of the suspension last month, but said at the time he intended to appeal. He also said his positive test was linked to an energy drink he had used since high school.

The Bucs (6-6) have won four of their past six games to rebound from a slow start and climb into contention for a NFC wild-card berth.